Many people, including women and children, lost their lives in a devastating tanker explosion at Dikko in the Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State.
The tragic incident occurred around 9 am on Saturday, January 18, when a petrol-laden tanker fell, spilling fuel onto the ground.
A resident of Dikko, identified only as Mr. John, who spoke to Daily Trust, estimated the number of fatalities at over 100, with many others suffering severe injuries. According to him, the explosion took place after a crowd, including many bystanders, began scooping fuel from the fallen tanker. “The dead bodies I saw were more than 100, including children and women. Some victims were taken to Suleja General Hospital and Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Hospital in Sabon-Wuse town, but they were rejected because of the severity of their burns,” he said.
The explosion occurred opposite the Government Girls’ Secondary School in Dikko, but did not detonate immediately. The tragedy unfolded as people gathered around the tanker to collect the leaking fuel. Another resident, Abubakar Hussaini, stated that the explosion affected many passers-by, including visitors heading to the Dikko weekly Saturday market, which was nearby.
An official of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) mentioned that the exact number of victims could not be determined until the fire was fully extinguished.
Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, confirmed the incident in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim. The governor expressed his deep sorrow over the explosion, calling it “worrisome, heartbreaking, and unfortunate.” He extended his condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for the repose of the departed souls while wishing the injured a speedy recovery.
Governor Bago also urged the people to prioritize safety and act responsibly, directing all relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to take necessary actions. He further called on security agencies to ensure safety in the area.